1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 275 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Kadett is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
